Wild Westfjords

Into the Wild Westfjods
Discover Iceland „the Westfjords Way“

In Reykjarfjordur a full-size swimming pool is visible from the main road. The water is warm all year round due to geothermal energy. Just above the pool, a cozy natural pool lies almost hidden. A real gem in Arnarfjordur. Facilities for changing of clothes is next to the swimming pool.

Natural pool in Laugarhóll natural thermal spring (41°C)

The Westfjords are an unmissable region of Iceland. Here, you will find steep cliffs with millions of nesting birds, well-maintained hiking paths, quirky museums, and some of the most breathtaking beauty on the island. To explore this beautiful slice of Iceland, there is a convenient new touring route called Vestfjarðaleiðin, or the Westfjords Way. This driving route encompasses a 950 km circle around the edges of the Westfjords and there are eight different types of route experiences to help travellers navigate the region.

*Reykjafjörður* in Arnarfjörður. In Reykjarfjordur a full-size swimming pool is visible from the main road. The water is warm all year round due to geotherma

Driving highlights
Vestfjarðaleiðin pinpoints locations where the landscape views are impressive and the driving experience is thrilling. Examples include the pass between Hrafnseyri and Þingeyri; the road around Klofningur; and the Neshringur loop.

One of the most impressive and least-talked-about natural features in all ofIceland, Drangaskörð are a series of seven rocky peaks jutting out into the sea in the Árneshreppur municipality. Like a jawful of jagged teeth, the peninsula emanates from Skarðafjall mountain and into the water. Named after ghosts, the rugged rocks project spooky shadows which have been capturing imaginations for a thousand years.

Quirky experiences
Some experiences are unique to Iceland, with unexpected places, museums, and attractions. Examples on this route include the Samúel Jónsson Sculpture, the Museum of Sorcery & Witchcraft, and the Sea Monster Museum.

*Hornbjarg* is the signature sea cliff towering at the top of Hornstrandir nature reserve. Green lush hills suddenly cut off by sheer cliffs dropping over 500 meters

Tours to iconic sites
There are numerous opportunities to tour remote natural spots like the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Látrabjarg cliffs; and Rauðasandur beach. You can spend your time roaming these gorgeous natural sites, soaking in the spectacular scenery.

Taste the place
Foodies rejoice, Iceland has so many tasty options to enjoy and in the Westfjords is no exception. The route leads you to the best eating places, coffee stops, excellent restaurants and farm shops. Examples include Erpsstaðir Dairy, Tjöruhúsið, and Sætt og Salt specialty chocolate. The Westfjords is also home to cosy cafes like Kaffi Sól, Litlibær, and Simbahöllin.

Instagrammable icons

A mountain road with a view – Hrafnseyrarheiði now replaced by a new tunnel

Stories
The Westfjords have a rich history and travellers can explore this through the sagas, visiting longhouses, and museums. Examples include: Hnjótur Museum, Eiríksstaðir Viking Museum; Eldsmiðjan Iron making, and the Jón Sigurðsson Museum.

*Dynjandi* is a waterfall located in Arnarfjörður. It is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords and has a total height of 100 metres

Taking the air
There are countless sky-high viewpoints where you can marvel at mountains, ascend hiking routes and enjoy skiing in the winter months. Examples include: Bolafjall, Dynjandi waterfall; the experience of flying into Ísafjörður, or hiking the old road to Bolungarvík.

Getting wet
Water is abundant on the island and can be experienced by bathing in hot pools like Guðúnarlaug, visiting waterfalls like Dynjandi, as well as getting close to bodies of water by kayaking and whale watching.

In a country full of beauty, the Westfjords may be the most beautiful region of all. Endless coastlines, jaw-dropping cliffs, and gorgeous mountain landscapes await those who make the trip. Discover Iceland the Westfjords Way.

Get your phone ready as there are so many views and experiences that capture the essence of Vestfjarðaleiðin. Examples include: the aircraft at Hnjótur; Garðar BA64 Steel Ship; the red roofed A-frame sheep hut in Arnarfjörður, as well as wildlife like puffins, whales, seals,and Arctic foxes.

*Arnarfjordur* is the second-largest fjord of the Wesfjords and is known as one of the most beautiful of the fjords, due to its diverse landscape, majestic mountains …

Easier to navigate
Vestfjarðaleiðin was created following the opening of a tunnel between Arnarfjörður and Dýrafjörður, an important link between the north and south parts of the Westfjords. The opening of the tunnel ensures the new Westfjords Way will be open year-round as travellers can now avoid the Hrafnseyrarheiði mountain pass, which is unpaved and closed for many months of the year.